Muirburn Season

Muirburn is permitted only during the statutory muirburn season, which runs from 1st October to 15th April inclusive, but the season can be extended to 30th April, with the permission of the landowner. The Scottish Government does not encourage this extension, as there are increased risks to ground-nesting birds in late April.

In a small number of exceptional circumstances, a licence to carry out burning outwith the season can be applied for. See the SNH website for guidance.

Mixed vegetation may not benefit from burning (Photo credit: The Heather Trust)